Exocyst Complex Component 7 (EXOC7)

EXOC7 is a component of the exocyst, which is an evolutionarily conserved octameric protein complex essential for exocytosis. The exocyst targets secretory vesicles at specific domains of the plasma membrane for cell surface expansion and protein secretion . The deduced 690-amino acid protein shares 94% identity with mouse Exoc7.

Overexpression of an EXO70 mutant blocked insulin-stimulated glucose uptake, but not the trafficking of GLUT4 to the plasma membrane. This mutant did, however, block the extracellular exposure of the GLUT4 protein. Inhibition of EXO70 by RNA interference or antibody microinjection blocked the formation of actin-based membrane protrusions and affected various aspects of cell motility.